Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

Usual hours

• Mon–Sun 9:00–17:00

From 56 published days, 2026-10-20 to 2026-12-14; community-mapped.

About

This park's official page lists: Pet-friendly (leashed).

Entrance / day-use fee applies.

This park's official page lists: Store / concessions.

At the park

• Caves & caverns scenic feature
• Wildlife & bird watching scenic feature

Shows and experiences

• Historic sites & museum
• Junior Ranger program
• Ranger & guided programs

Events

• Evening Flag Change 05:00 PM–05:30 PM · Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort
• Morning Flag Change 10:00 AM–10:30 AM · Program takes place on the parade ground inside the Star Fort
• War in the Chesapeake
• Battle of Baltimore
• Flag Talk
• Ranger's Choice Programs 11:15 AM–12:00 PM · All Rangers Choice Programs meet outside the park visitor center on the concrete map of the Chesapeake Bay.

Before you go

Limits

Are pets permitted in the park?

Park alert: Preservation Work Along Trails

Starting March 18, preservationists restoring the bronze state plaques along the entrance road, and the War of 1812 commemorative markers in the Orpheus Grove. Some of these areas may be temporarily closed while work is in progress.

Park alert: Baltimore Area Traffic Advisory

Traffic in the Baltimore area has increased considerably in recent months due to the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge which connected the Baltimore beltway. Please check the latest traffic conditions to plan your travel accordingly.

Park alert: Motorized Recreational Scooters Not Permitted in Park

For the safety and protection of visitors and park resources, motorized scooters are not permitted within the park. Any vehicles (scooters, bicycles, etc.) that are part of a ride-share program may not be left behind for pick up inside the park

Park alert: We cannot mail out at this time

We do not mail Junior Ranger books; please download from site. Completed books may be submitted digitally. Junior Ranger badges may be mailed once per person per calendar year after completion. We do not mail completed books back.

Getting there

The park is three miles southeast of the Baltimore Inner Harbor and just off I-95. Follow the brown Fort McHenry directional signs along all major routes to the park. From I-95 northbound, take Exit 55 Key Highway and follow Fort McHenry signs.

Weather & when to go

Temperatures and weather in the spring and fall months tend to be mild. Ice, snow, and freezing temperatures can occur during winter. Extreme heat can occur during the summer months. Inclement weather may impact park hours of operation year round. Refer to the park alerts or call ahead to confirm operating hours.

Visitor center

Chesapeake Map

Visitor center

Flag Pole

Visitor center

Flag Pole

Visitor center

Star Fort Historic Zone

Visitor center

Star Fort Historic Zone

Facilities on the park map

9 bench, 2 changing table, 2 first aid kit, 2 picnic area, 4 restroom, 5 visitor information.

History

Opened

1925

Heritage status

Listed heritage / protected status

• Park opened